Introduction: The Legendary Himalayan Road Trip
The Leh to Manali road trip is one of the most scenic and adventurous routes in the Indian Himalayas. Spanning over 450 km of dramatic landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and remote mountain villages, this journey is a rite of passage for road trip lovers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a slow traveler, planning a 7-day itinerary allows you to experience the route without rushing—and ensures you don’t miss the must-see stops along the way.
How to Plan a 7-Day Trip to Ladakh via Manali
Planning a week-long trip on this route requires more than just fuel in the tank. Consider acclimatization, terrain challenges, and weather.
Here’s a high-level 7-day itinerary:
Day 1: Manali to Keylong (Distance: ~120 km | Drive Time: 4-5 hours) Cross the Atal Tunnel and explore the quiet valleys of Lahaul. Overnight in Keylong for acclimatization.
Day 2: Keylong to Sarchu (Distance: ~110 km | Drive Time: 5-6 hours) Enjoy the vast high-altitude desert and sleep under a starlit sky in Sarchu’s campsites.
Day 3: Sarchu to Leh (Distance: ~250 km | Drive Time: 8–9 hours) Cross multiple high mountain passes, including Nakee La, Lachung La, and Tanglang La, before descending into Leh.
Day 4–6: Explore Leh & Surroundings Use these days to explore local monasteries, the Shanti Stupa, Pangong Lake, or even consider booking a curated experience like Discover the Magic of Ladakh with Wanderers.
Day 7: Fly Out or Return to Manali/Srinagar Depending on your schedule, fly from Leh or extend your trip with an alternate return route.
Where to Stop Between Manali and Leh?
A proper Leh–Manali road trip isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the incredible places in between. Here are key stops that should be on your radar:
1.Keylong – A great first stop post-Atal Tunnel. Quiet, green, and ideal for an overnight stay.
2. Jispa – A picturesque village by the Bhaga River, offering riverside camps and beautiful views.
3. Baralacha La – A stunning high-altitude pass with surreal landscapes.
4. Sarchu – Known for its dramatic plateau and tented camps.
5. Gata Loops – A series of 21 hairpin bends with panoramic views.
6. Pang – A barren, high-altitude stop with army tea houses and basic amenities.
7. Tanglang La – One of the highest motorable passes at over 17,500 ft, just before reaching Leh.
Each of these stops provides a mix of natural beauty, rest, and acclimatization.
What Are the Passes Between Leh and Manali?
The road between Manali and Leh takes you over five stunning mountain passes, each offering unique terrain and views:
1. Atal Tunnel (10,000 ft) – Now bypasses the older Rohtang Pass, reducing travel time and increasing reliability.
2. Baralacha La (16,040 ft) – Known for its pristine white snow and frozen lakes even in summer.
3. Nakee La (15,547 ft) – Often overlooked, but a beautiful windswept pass.
4. Lachung La (16,616 ft) – A dramatic, rugged stretch.
5. Tanglang La (17,480 ft) – The second-highest pass on the route, often covered in snow year-round.
Driving through these passes is physically demanding on vehicles and humans alike. Proper acclimatization and hydration are key.
How Much Time Does It Take from Manali to Leh by Car?
If driven without overnight halts, the Manali to Leh drive takes around 14–16 hours depending on road and weather conditions. However, this is not recommended due to the high-altitude terrain and risk of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Ideal duration? 3 days minimum, with overnight halts at Keylong/Jispa and Sarchu/Pang to allow your body to adjust to the altitude and enjoy the journey.
Bonus Experience: Pair it With Another Hidden Gem
If your appetite for the Himalayas is just beginning, consider pairing your Ladakh trip with an offbeat adventure like the Langtang Valley’s Untouched Wilderness in Nepal.
It’s raw, less commercialized, and perfect for trekkers seeking cultural and natural immersion.
Final Tips Before You Go
• Carry extra fuel: Fuel stations are sparse after Tandi (before Leh).
• Travel insurance is recommended.
• Keep copies of permits for Rohtang and inner-line areas.
• Best time to travel: June to mid-September.
Conclusion:
A Leh to Manali road trip is more than a checklist—it’s a transformational Himalayan experience. By planning a thoughtful 7-day itinerary, choosing the right stops, and understanding the terrain, you can make the most of every mile.
When you’re ready to go beyond the usual, consider curated journeys like Discover the Magic of Ladakh with Wanderers, where every turn is part of a story.
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Ida Khanna is a travel content writer and digital marketing specialist who crafts compelling, SEO-driven stories for brands like MakeMyTrip, Wanderers, and Thrillophilia. She combines storytelling with strategy to create engaging travel content that resonates with audiences and boosts visibility across digital platforms.
